[Diffuse hair loss in women].

Area of Science:

• Dermatology and Trichology
• Endocrinology
• Psychology

Context:

• Diffuse hair loss in women presents diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
• Female pattern hair loss is often linked to androgenetic alopecia, influenced by hormonal fluctuations or therapies.
• Distinguishing between androgenetic alopecia, chronic telogen effluvium, and psychogenic pseudo effluvium is critical.

Purpose:

• To outline the differential diagnosis of diffuse hair loss in women.
• To describe the mechanisms and characteristics of androgenetic alopecia, chronic telogen effluvium, and psychogenic pseudo effluvium.
• To guide physicians in selecting appropriate therapies based on accurate diagnosis.

Summary:

• Androgenetic alopecia involves androgen-induced hair cycle shortening, leading to central scalp thinning.
• Idiopathic chronic telogen effluvium is characterized by abrupt, widespread shedding due to hair growth cycle synchronization.
• Psychogenic pseudo effluvium stems from a perceived discrepancy between actual hair and idealized expectations.

Impact:

• Rational therapy for androgenetic alopecia includes anti-androgens or minoxidil to counteract androgen effects.
• Reassurance and understanding are key for women with idiopathic chronic telogen effluvium, emphasizing shedding over true loss.
• Accurate diagnosis improves patient anxiety management and therapeutic outcomes for hair loss conditions.